Which Countertops are Best for My Kitchen Remodel?

It goes without saying that kitchen remodeling can be a huge undertaking, especially when it comes to the design. With so many different decisions and selections to make, achieving the kitchen of your dreams can turn into an overwhelming and drawn-out process. One area that many homeowners struggle with when designing a kitchen remodel is the countertops. There are so many different kitchen countertop materials to choose from, each with its own unique cleaning and durability considerations. So, how do you know which kitchen countertops are best for your remodel? Working with an experienced design-build remodeling company is a good start.

At Glenbrook Remodeling, we have years of experience providing premium kitchen remodeling in Chicago, Evanston, and the surrounding area. One of the advantages of working with our kitchen remodeling company is that we help you with every aspect of the remodel process, from the initial design to completing the finishing touches. Choosing countertops for your kitchen remodel can be a challenge. However, there is no need to worry — continuing reading as we review the different types of kitchen countertop materials and what to consider when making a selection for your kitchen remodeling project.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Countertops

With so many countertop materials to choose from, it is important to consider various factors to ensure that you make a selection that will cater to your needs, lifestyle, and aesthetics. Some essential factors to consider when making this selection for your kitchen remodeling project include:

• Appearance

You should feel comfortable in your kitchen and the appearance of the space should have a direct influence on the comfort it provides. That is why many homeowners focus on the visual characteristics and appearance of each material when selecting countertops for their kitchen. As a rule of thumb, the countertops you select should reflect your cabinet selection. Dark countertops provide great contrast while countertops with a neutral appearance can be used to create a crisp, clean look.

• Durability

The different countertop materials to choose from all vary in degree of durability and required maintenance. Most homeowners want kitchen countertops that are functional and durable enough to handle the average wear and tear from chopping, cutting, and placing food and drinks on top of the countertop surface without having to worry about major marks, nicks, or stains. Additionally, many forget to consider the level of maintenance and care required to keep the countertops looking their best.

• Cost

The cost is typically the ultimate factor in any home remodeling project. Unfortunately, the different countertop choices can run the gamut in price. While there are cost-effective options available, they typically do not offer the same performance, functionality, and durability that higher-priced options would. Kitchen remodeling is an investment, but one that offers fantastic returns as long as the right products and materials are used. It may be worth choosing a higher-end material than one that is considered cost-effective in the long run.

Popular Countertop Materials for Kitchen Remodels

Most often, homeowners will upgrade their kitchen countertops during a remodel. With that said, certain materials that are more common for these types of projects. Below, our kitchen remodeling experts highlight some of the most popular kitchen countertop types.

Granite

Granite is perhaps the most common type of kitchen countertops. It comes in various colors, textures, and finishes. Granite offers a high-end appearance and it adds instant value to your kitchen because it is both exquisite and functional, providing a polished sheen and a durable prep surface. This material will also last, as it is resistant to cracks, chips, scratches, and heat. It resists chemicals and bacteria as well and is very easy to maintain. And since granite is a non-porous material, it also protects against mold and mildew.

Quartz

Quartz is a man-made material that offers a clean, neat, and luxurious appearance that blends well with different styles of cabinets and walls. Quartz countertops are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, giving you many options to choose from. As it is engineered, it can be made without the imperfections of natural stone countertops while replicating their appearance. The material is stain- and crack-resistant, and because it is non-porous, it is very hygienic. The only downside to quartz countertops is that they are not very heat resistant.

Marble

Marble countertops are a great choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their kitchen. Marble definitely adds the look of luxury that many homeowners seek with a kitchen remodeling project. With its natural luminescence, it can make your kitchen look glamorous. However, it is important to know that marble countertop surfaces will scratch and show signs of wear and tear over the years, so proper maintenance is key to preserving their functionality and appearance.

Laminate

Laminate kitchen countertops are a great choice for homeowners who do not want to spend an arm and a leg on a kitchen renovation. While it is not exactly regarded as the most stylish countertop material, laminate is very easy to install and is more affordable compared to other types of countertop material. One of the reasons why this cost-effective material is popular is due to the fact that it’s available in many different colors and styles. Laminate material is also low-maintenance and easy to clean — you don’t have to worry about unsightly staining.

Wood

If you like the natural look of wood, reclaimed wood and butcher block countertops are great options for your kitchen remodel. Hardwood kitchen flooring is highly popular, which is perhaps why wood countertops are seeing resurgence as a common countertop option. However, wood countertop material should be sealed to create the ideal prep space and give your space a natural and elegant touch. The biggest downside to wood countertops is that they require regular maintenance to minimize scorching, scratching, and other forms of damage that the material is susceptible to.

With all the different types and materials available, there is a countertop option to suit every kitchen design style and budget. Whichever option you choose will impact your overall kitchen design style, budget, and long-term durability and maintenance, so it’s worth considering all options. 

If you are not sure which option is best for your kitchen remodeling project, the team of kitchen designers at Glenbrook Remodeling can help! Our remodeling showroom features the various countertop options we offer, allowing you to experience the materials you’re interested in incorporating into your kitchen remodeling project. If you need assistance, we’ll take your wants, style, and budget into consideration to help you make the perfect selection. Ready to get started? Contact us today.